No, remote workers located outside the UK cannot get BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) clearance because:
1️⃣ BPSS is a UK-Specific Pre-Employment Screening
- It is designed for UK-based workers in government, defense, and sensitive roles.
- It involves identiy checks, right to work checks, employment history, criminal records (DBS), and nationality.
2️⃣ Right to Work in the UK is Required
- One of the main checks in BPSS is confirming that the individual has legal permission to work in the UK.
- A non-UK resident without a UK work visa or right-to-work status would fail this check.
3️⃣ DBS Check is UK-Specific
- BPSS requires a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, which only applies to people living or working in the UK.
- If the person has never lived in the UK, their criminal record won’t be available through DBS, making BPSS incomplete.
What If the Role is Remote but the Company is in the UK?
UK-Based Remote Workers – If the person lives in the UK but works remotely, they can get BPSS clearance.
Overseas Workers – If someone is permanently based outside the UK, they cannot pass BPSS because they lack a UK criminal record check and right-to-work verification.
Alternative for Non-UK Remote Workers?
For international employees working remotely, companies may:
✅ Conduct local background checks in their home country.
✅ Use international screening services to verify ID, employment history, and criminal records.
✅ Check company security policies to determine if full BPSS is necessary or if an equivalent international clearance can be accepted.
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